Whole Home Surge Protectors: What are They and Why Would You Want One?

You probably already know a bit about surge protectors. These devices are designed to prevent voltage spikes, which can damage electronics and electrical equipment.

Anyone who has had their TV or computer fried by a sudden surge in voltage knows how important these protectors are.

They work by limiting the amount of voltage supplied to devices. This is done by blocking excess voltage entirely or by directing it to a connection in the ground.

A whole home surge protector works in a similar way. The main difference is, as you might have guessed, they’re made to protect your entire home.

The idea is to allow only the desired amount of electricity into your home by keeping excess voltage out. These devices typically function with your electric services box.

Why Are Whole Home Surge Protectors Useful?

If single and whole home surge protectors work in a similar fashion, can’t you just use an individual one for each device in your home?

Well, in theory, you could but you really shouldn’t. That method would require a lot of surge protectors and would neglect any devices hardwired into your home’s electrical system.

Your home is much better off with a surge protector designed to protect it as a unit. Here’s why:

Surges are Frequent, Fast and Often Undetectable

With a whole home surge protector, you’ll block out excess voltage before you even realize it’s there. In fact, the majority of surges in our homes are internal, caused by us and our appliances. Despite what many people think, lightning isn’t always to blame.

This small surges cause damage over time and destroy your devices. You may not even realize these mini over voltages are having an effect on your belongings until the damage is done.

We’re Using More Electronic Devices Than Ever

How many electronic devices are in your home? There may be too many to count!

Replacing any or all of these items would be a hassle, not to mention expensive. The more electronic items you have in your home, the more potential there is for costly damage.

A whole home surge protector does more than safeguard your most important electronic devices. It also protects all those little tools you don’t think about like LED lighting and other circuit based objects.

Your Home Needs Comprehensive Protection

Voltage surges can happen in any home. As we’ve discussed, these are generally caused by appliances within the home, but may also occur because of outside elements.

For individuals living near power lines, protection against excess voltage is extremely important. Without it, your home is at higher risk for dangerous surge spikes.

Tips for Selecting a Whole Home Surge Protector

Now that you know the benefits of whole home surge protectors, let’s go over some important tips for choosing and installing these devices:

Make sure it provides layered protection for your entire home.

Look for fuse protection.

Select models with an indicator light so you’ll know if it’s working properly.

Check the warranty and the amount of damages it covers.

Discuss clamping voltage requirements with a professional.

Of course, no surge protector will function at its best without proper installation by a licensed professional. Leave the tricky stuff to the experts at Three Rivers Services while you relax knowing your home is protected.

For more information about surge protection and our services, contact us at (985) 892-7071.